Mattresses, Upholstery – How Shady Salespeople Deprive Customers of Their Sleep

The range of mattresses, pillows and blankets that promise a healthy sleep is enormous. The trade in this area is flourishing. There are also sales stands of bedding companies in shopping malls, which are often run by contractual or agency partners of the companies.

Profit as a lure
Very often, a wheel of fortune or a lottery is offered and prizes are promised. But these hits do not always deliver what they promise. According to the state’s consumer protection service center, there are numerous complaints about dubious sales practices. For example, a few days later, customers are told by phone that they have won a pillow, for example. An appointment is made at the customer’s home or at a sales location for the presentation of the prize.

Instead of the promised profit, mattresses or bed systems are presented. These are for sale at “cheaper conditions”. The result: Since those affected are usually older people, they often agree to an order and conclude contracts because of the pressure sales techniques, according to consumer advocates. If customers want to exercise their right of withdrawal later, this is made more difficult or refused. Reason: The Distance and Absence Act (FAGG) with a 14-day right of withdrawal would not apply.

For consumer advocates, this is a case of “overriding the law”: Because customers are not lured to the seller’s premises and enter into a contract immediately or only a few days later with a supposed profit, the FAGG is often very cleverly circumvented. “The promised profits are only used as a lure for further profit-seeking,” says deputy regional director Astrid Eisenkopf. Such practices must be strictly prohibited. The Burgenland State Consumer Protection Service Center offers help by calling 057/600 2346.